Ringing in 2025 with gunshots in Missouri could cost you. Here’s how much
As the clock strikes midnight on Jan. 1, 2025, you might be tempted to add joyful noise to the celebration by firing a gun or shooting off your own fireworks.
But starting the new year with these kinds of bangs could set you back hundreds of dollars, or even send you to jail.
In 2024, a Missouri law that penalizes celebratory gunshots in cities and towns took effect. Even lighting up fireworks could get you in trouble, since some Missouri municipalities ban pyrotechnics at New Year’s.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said in a Tuesday press conference that those who fire a gun in celebration are committing a violent crime with the potential for injury and death.
“Put the guns down this New Year’s Eve,” he said.
Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves told residents to call 911 if they heard gunshots.
“To whatever extent you have influence over friends, family or neighbors, if you hear them talking about getting a gun to shoot, please talk them out of it. That conversation could save a life,” she said.
What happens if you get caught firing your gun in celebration in Missouri?
The first offense could land you a misdemeanor penalty of up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000, under Blair’s Law. The second offense is considered a class E felony, bringing up to four years of incarceration.
What is Blair’s Law?
This law specifically prohibits recklessly discharging a firearm within a city’s limits. The bill, which took effect in August, was named after an 11-year-old girl who was killed by a stray bullet in 2011 in Kansas City.
What are the fireworks laws in Missouri?
It depends on the city or town where you live.
Kansas City prohibits the launching of fireworks without a permit all year round, as do other area cities like Gladstone, Grandview and North Kansas City.
In addition, some municipalities only allow residents to launch fireworks during the Fourth of July, but not the rest of the year, including New Year’s Day. These include Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, Liberty and Raymore.
Check the laws in your city to avoid an unwanted visit from the police.
The Star’s Nathan Pilling and Joseph Hernandez contributed to this report.
